20 JOEL. THE Lord's greaT ARMY.

Lord Jesus, "Who for the joy that was set before him, endured the cross, despising the shame, and is set down at the right hand of the throne of God.” Mrs. P.-Will you oblige me, Sir, with another sentence?

Er.-Presently, Madam; but a scene previously awaits attention.

Mr. P.-This is a scene indeed! Not one of the most pleasing. Shrubs and bushes covered with locusts; vegetables with caterpillars and earth-worms. Surely, this is a representation of the Lord's great army! by Joel.

Ex.-It is, Sir; and will you inform me from whom the prophet demands attention?

Mr. P.-Old men, children, children's children, and all the inhabitants of the land: a very solemn call, indeed. How my father used to lament, that notwithstanding the Lord publishes to sinners the awful judgment which awaits them, there are comparatively few that hearken to his warning voice.

Ex.-Now, Madam, you shall be gratified.

Mr. P.-Another sentence, "You only have I known of all the families of the earth: therefore I will punish you for your iniquities."

Mrs. P.-Surely this demands general attention! James, what is your opinion?

22 JONAH. A SOLEMN SENTENCE.

Mr. P.-It perfectly coincides with yours, Madam. My father not only considered it as a solemn warning to professors, but said it contained a thundering reply to Antinomian prevarication.

Ex. You have so well described the scenes, and explained the sentences, that without either, I am persuaded you can inform me what is the general tenor of Obadiah's prophecy.

Mr. P.—I think, Sir, Obadiah denounced the judgments of God upon those who rejoiced in the afflictions of his people, but promised those who served him faithfully, support under, and final deliverance from, all their troubles.

Er.-Perfectly correct. You will

now please to favour me with an account of the prophet to whom this scene refers ?

Mr. P.-But will you not make me acquainted with his name?

Ex-I am persuaded that I need not; but if you hesitate, I will readily

assist you.

Mr. P. This scene so evidently tells its own tale, that without hesitation I must conclude it refers to Jonah. His countenance indicates great perversity, and though recumbent on his withered gourd, he seems far from being at ease. Ex.-Perversity and ease never

unite.

24.. THE WITHERED GOURD.

Mr. P.-He appears to have forgotten the discipline which he had previously received.

Er.-Whether he had quite forgotten it or not, it is very evident that at the time this scene represents, he was more concerned for his personal credit than he was for the display of divine mercy in deferring the punishment denounced against the Ninevites. On this account he manifested the same evil temper which he had previously discovered: he certainly acted wrong, and it is easy to censure his angry spirit; but is not our conduct too frequently equally reprehensible? Mrs. P.-Without waiting for my